Background:
Alex is a high school sophomore identified with an Emotional Disturbance (EmD) and receives specialized support services under the IDEA. He has a history of anxiety, depression, and occasional disruptive behaviors, particularly in unstructured environments or high-stress academic situations.
Academic Challenges:
1.Inconsistent Academic Performance: Alex struggles to focus and complete assignments on time, especially in core subjects like math and English. His work is often incomplete, and he may disengage entirely if tasks seem overwhelming.
2.Difficulty with Abstract Thinking: Due to anxiety, Alex often finds it challenging to approach open-ended questions or engage in assignments requiring critical thinking. He performs better on structured tasks but shows academic avoidance for projects that require extended thought.
3.Lack of Organizational Skills: Alex has trouble managing his time and organizing materials, frequently losing assignments or forgetting deadlines. This often leads to frustration and, occasionally, outbursts of anger when his grades are affected.
Social Challenges:
1.Interpersonal Conflicts: Alex struggles with social interactions, often misinterpreting the intentions of his peers. This has led to occasional arguments or misunderstandings, especially during group work or social activities.
2.Limited Peer Relationships: Alex is often withdrawn and has difficulty forming friendships. His peers may view him as standoffish due to his quiet nature, but Alex actually experiences high social anxiety that discourages him from engaging.
3.Behavioral Outbursts in Unstructured Settings: Lunch or transitions between classes tend to increase Alexs anxiety, sometimes leading to emotional outbursts or refusal to follow routines.
Outcomes:
Alex faces many challenges and combined academic and social support will help him gradually build confidence. Those supports would allow him the opportunity to be successful and participate more fully in his school community.
For this assignment based on this case study, you should create a practical and research-driven task to ensure Alex is successful both academically and socially. Please locate peer-reviewed articles that discuss evidenced based practices to support your commitment of ensuring Alex is successful both academically and socially.
analyze the case study of Alex, identify how he meets criteria for Emotional Disturbance (EmD), research appropriate school supports and interventions, and design a plan that could be implemented within a school environment.
1.Review the Case Study
Please read through the case study of Alex, focusing on his academic and social challenges.
2.Determine EmD Eligibility Criteria
Research the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) definition and criteria for Emotional Disturbance (EmD).
Analyze Alexs behavior and academic/social profile to justify how he meets (or does not meet) EmD criteria based on IDEAs guidelines.
Write a brief summary of why Alex meets the criteria for EmD services, including specific criteria met.
3.Research Supports and Interventions
Research and propose interventions addressing Alexs academic and social needs.
Please detail how each proposed support or intervention addresses specific challenges Alex faces. Examples might include behavioral interventions, accommodations in the classroom, social skills training, and family involvement.
4.Develop a Support Plan
Based on your research, you will design a practical, school-based support plan for Alex.
The plan should include at least three specific interventions and outline measurable goals for Alexs academic and social progress.
Please present how you would measure the effectiveness of each intervention.